Temple Talk on Tithing

I've been asked to do a five minute temple talk in October about tithing. That is just a quick speech during church services about a particular subject. And, since we are about to begin our stewardship campaign and ask for pledges for 2017, it is fitting to address this matter.

Tithing isn't new - it begins with the Old Testament and there are a lot of references to it. Tithing didn't necessarily mean money, but also produce, stock, etc. Today we recognize it also as the giving of our time and talents, but it really comes down to simply returning a tenth of what you are blessed with to God. It should be done not out of obligation, but in willingness. The idea is that God has given you a gift, and in appreciation, you show your gratitude by giving back a portion.

There seems also to be a question as to whether that means 10% to the church or 10% for all charitable giving. I think one has to come to that decision on his/her own. I just know that I'm not limited to 10% and am fortunate to be able to contribute to both. You don't need to have an over-abundance of wealth and resources, but if one has everything he/she needs, why not share additional blessings with others? 

Last year I wrote a poem just for stewardship. I remember what it was like just starting out married life (when I joined my church), and later having a young family. I believe meeting a pledge is somewhat like forgiveness - you really need to pray in order to do it. That covers the unforeseen as well as any temptation not to do it.

For anyone who hasn't seen the poem, here it is:

What If?

I had a dream the other night

About what I would do

If there no longer was a church

No altar, nave or pew

No wedding venue for anyone

No funerals for those who pass

No services on Christmas Eve

No baptisms or Easter mass

How can this be? I asked

The church is always here

Whenever I want or need it

Only a few times every year

And then I finally realized

The church needs funds year round

To keep it there for all of us

To give it solid ground

So I quickly sought my pledge card

And asked God to give to me

A generous and grateful heart

To support church continually

It hasn’t always been easy

Finances are sometimes tight

But I remember everything is God’s

To give back is only right

And now I’m blessed to know

That I’m helping my church to be

Always there for others

And especially there for me!

Vicki Julian (copyright 2015)

Blessings to all!